President Trump’s Border Czar, Tom Homan, has issued a strong warning to New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, threatening federal prosecution after Murphy hinted that he may be sheltering an undocumented immigrant in his home. Homan emphasized that any official found knowingly harboring illegal immigrants could face serious legal consequences under federal law.
Murphy’s Provocative Remarks Spark Backlash
The controversy began when Governor Murphy, speaking at a public event on immigration policy, made a bold statement suggesting that he was personally housing an undocumented immigrant and dared federal officials to act. “Try to get her,” Murphy reportedly said, in what many saw as a direct challenge to federal authority.
Homan quickly responded, citing Title 8, U.S. Code § 1324, which explicitly makes it a felony to conceal, harbor, or shield an illegal immigrant from detection. “If he’s concealing someone who is in the country unlawfully, we will investigate, and if the facts line up, I will prosecute him,” Homan said in a fiery statement. “No one is above the law—not even a governor.”
Homan’s Hardline Stance on Sanctuary Leaders
Homan’s response reflects the Trump administration’s aggressive stance against sanctuary state and city policies. New Jersey is one of several states that have implemented policies limiting cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration officials. The administration has long argued that these sanctuary policies endanger American citizens by providing protection to criminal aliens.
“Governor Murphy is playing a dangerous game,” Homan added. “He’s not protecting his state—he’s undermining national security.”
Governor’s Office Responds
After Homan’s remarks gained national attention, a spokesperson for Murphy attempted to downplay the comments, claiming that the governor’s statement was taken out of context. According to the spokesperson, the individual in question is a legal resident awaiting resolution of their immigration status.
“Governor Murphy was making a symbolic point about the humanity and dignity of those who come to this country,” the statement read. “He is committed to standing up for immigrants but is not in violation of federal law.”
Legal Implications and Federal Authority
Despite Murphy’s clarification, legal experts suggest that Homan’s warning could set the stage for further clashes between state and federal officials. The Trump administration has shown it is willing to target state leaders who openly defy federal immigration laws. In recent months, federal agencies have filed lawsuits against sanctuary jurisdictions and considered legal action against officials obstructing deportations.
Homan emphasized that the administration’s focus is not on rhetoric but on results. “We don’t care about political statements,” he said. “If Governor Murphy or any other official is harboring illegal aliens, we will hold them accountable.”
Broader Implications for Sanctuary States
This confrontation highlights the broader struggle between federal immigration enforcement and state sanctuary policies. With President Trump’s return to office, the administration has already ramped up deportation raids, bolstered border security, and reinstated agreements with local law enforcement to help identify and detain illegal immigrants.
Murphy’s case could set a precedent for further federal actions against state and local officials who defy federal immigration law. “This isn’t about politics,” Homan concluded. “It’s about enforcing the law and protecting American citizens.”
As the situation unfolds, New Jersey could find itself at the center of a legal and political showdown, with far-reaching implications for sanctuary states and their leadership.